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White House Public Tours to Reopen in December 2025

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  Published in Science and Technology on Friday, October 31st 2025 at 13:09 GMT by whitehouse.gov
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White House Public Tours to Reopen in December 2025: A Comprehensive Overview

After more than two years of limited access, the White House announced on October 15, 2025 that it will reopen its public tours beginning in December of that year. The announcement, released by the White House Office of the Press Secretary, outlines a phased approach to re‑opening, new health‑and‑safety protocols, and practical details for visitors. The move comes as the federal government moves toward full normalization following the COVID‑19 pandemic, while maintaining measures to protect staff and visitors.

Key Points of the Announcement

1. Reopening Date and Schedule
   - The first tours are slated to resume on December 1, 2025.
   - Tours will be available daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with a total of four guided tours per day, each lasting approximately 45 minutes.
   - The schedule will gradually expand over the course of December to accommodate increased demand.

2. Visitor Eligibility and Reservations
   - Reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance through the official White House Visitor Center portal.
   - Visitors must be 18 years of age or older; minors may accompany adults but cannot be scheduled for tours independently.
   - No walk‑in reservations are permitted; all tours are by appointment only.

3. Health and Safety Protocols
   - Proof of COVID‑19 vaccination is required for all visitors. The required evidence may be provided in the form of a digital vaccine card or a printed certificate.
   - Unvaccinated visitors will be offered a rapid antigen test on arrival; a negative result is mandatory for tour access.
   - Masks are required for all visitors inside the White House and in transit areas. Reusable cloth masks are acceptable; surgical masks and face shields are also permitted.
   - Temperature checks and symptom screenings will be conducted at the Visitor Center lobby.
   - The White House will maintain a visitor log that records the date, time, and name of each visitor for contact tracing purposes.

4. Contact Tracing and Reporting
   - Visitors who develop symptoms after a tour are required to notify the White House Office of the Press Secretary via email or phone.
   - In case of a confirmed COVID‑19 case linked to a tour, the White House will immediately notify the CDC and relevant local health authorities.

5. Visitor Experience Enhancements
   - The White House Visitor Center has undergone renovations to improve flow and reduce bottlenecks. A dedicated “Visitor Experience” staff will assist with tours.
   - Guided tours will include a focus on recent historical preservation efforts, new art installations, and the President’s initiatives on climate change.
   - Each tour is led by a certified White House guide with a background in history, political science, or museum studies.

Context and Background

The decision to reopen public tours is part of the White House’s broader effort to re‑establish public engagement while respecting ongoing public health concerns. President Carter, in a statement, emphasized that the White House remains committed to transparency and public service, and that the reopening reflects the resilience and adaptability of the nation.

The White House’s COVID‑19 Health and Safety Guidelines, published earlier in the year on October 2, 2025, provide a framework for all public-facing operations. Those guidelines recommend that all visitors be vaccinated, masks be worn in all indoor spaces, and that the building remain well‑ventilated through the use of HVAC systems that incorporate HEPA filters. The guidelines also advise the use of rapid antigen tests for unvaccinated visitors, which is mirrored in the new tour protocol.

The White House Office of the Press Secretary’s brief, available on the official website, includes a downloadable PDF that outlines all the new rules and the step‑by‑step process for booking a tour. The PDF also contains a FAQ section addressing common visitor concerns, such as “What if I can’t show proof of vaccination?” and “Will my tour be rescheduled if a new COVID‑19 variant is detected?”

Practical Tips for Prospective Visitors

• Book Early: Tours are limited, especially during the holiday season. Reserve your spot as soon as the December schedule is posted.
• Prepare Documentation: Have your vaccine card ready in a digital format (e.g., a screenshot on your phone) and a backup printed copy.
• Bring a Mask: Although masks are mandatory, bringing a spare mask can be useful if your first mask becomes damp or uncomfortable.
• Plan for Screening: Allow 15–20 minutes before your scheduled tour for the temperature check and any rapid test.
• Stay Informed: Follow the White House’s official social media channels for any last‑minute changes or updates due to public health developments.

Final Thoughts

The reopening of the White House public tours in December 2025 marks a significant step toward normalcy, reflecting the nation’s ongoing recovery from the pandemic. By instituting a comprehensive set of health and safety protocols—proof of vaccination, mandatory mask use, and rapid testing for unvaccinated visitors—the White House aims to safeguard its staff and visitors while re‑engaging the public in a historic landmark. Visitors can look forward to an enriched tour experience, bolstered by enhanced visitor services and a commitment to transparency. The initiative also underscores the White House’s dedication to balancing public engagement with public health, ensuring that the legacy of the nation's executive mansion remains both accessible and safe for all.